Northeast defenseman Smoliga makes NCAA commitment

April 8, 2020

The Northeast Generals of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that defenseman Matt Smoliga has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for the Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT).

 

Smoliga, 21, just completed his second and final season of playing in the NAHL. The 6’2/195 lbs. native of Glenview, Illinois, joined the Generals after starting the year with the Amarillo Bulls.  In 22 games with the Generals this season, Smoliga recorded two goals and four assists for six points. Overall, Smoliga played in 33 NAHL games during the 2019-20 season.

 

“Matt was a great acquisition for us this past year.  He came in and was great on the ice but also tremendous in the locker room.  Just a great kid that came to the rink ready to work each and every day.  He bought into our program and was an immediate presence in the locker room and in the community.  I am really happy for Matt and his decision to stay local.  He will join fellow General Charlie Reid next year which is awesome.  Wentworth is getting a great player and young man,” said Generals Head Coach/GM Bryan Erikson.

 

Smoliga made his NAHL debut during the 2018-19 season with the Shreveport Mudbugs and later played with the Amarillo Bulls. In 61 career NAHL games, Smoliga recorded 13 points.

 

Prior to playing the NAHL, Smoliga played youth hockey for the Chicago Young Americans.